Scottsdale’s thriving cultural scene presents the visitor with some exceptional museums and attractions.

First on the list and not to be missed is Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece, which is a National Historic Landmark. This working complex is located on 600 acres of beautiful Sonoran desert east of Scottsdale Rd. on Cactus Rd. at the intersection of Cactus Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd. in northeast Scottsdale. An interesting variety of tours are offered- The Architecture Discovery Tour is popular with families with school-age children. The dramatic architecture seems to grow out of the desert to create a stunning visual experience.

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, located on the Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, focuses on contemporary artists and features works in all media from furniture to glass. This exciting museum is known for its creative space as well as for cutting-edge exhibits.

The prestigious Heard Museum North is dedicated to Native American artists and can be viewed at El Pedregal Festival Marketplace at Scottsdale Rd. and Carefree Hwy.

The Cosanti Foundation (see tip) founded by architect Paolo Soleri houses a gallery for sales of the famous Soleri Windbells and other Cosanti creations. The ceramics are sold to support Paolo Soleri’s architectural foundation and to build Arcosanti, a visionary city that combines architecture with ecology. The complex at 6433 Doubletree Ranch Rd. features a Visitor Center, café, and bakery.

Tip: Take a self-guided tour of the Gallery and grounds at the Cosanti Foundation; if you arrive between 10am & 12pm Monday-Friday you can observe the foundry and the ceramicists at work. Directions: from Scottsdale Blvd. go west on Doubletree Ranch Rd. about a mile.

Tip: There are many fine examples of public art in and around Scottsdale and in particular at the Civic Center Mall/Arts Complex located in Scottsdale Downtown at Scottsdale and Indian School Roads.

Tip: Expand your horizons with a visit to downtown Phoenix and take in the Heard Museum, home to an internationally famous collection of Native American art and culture; a few blocks away is the Phoenix Art Museum with its magnificent exhibits of fine art; both are located on N.Central Ave. north of McDowell Rd. close to the south end of Scottsdale.